
Netflix has confirmed that it will release a talent show judged by One Direction star Liam Payne later this year.
Building the Band was among the final projects Payne worked on before his passing at age 31, following a fall from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina, last October.
The singer served as a judge in the series alongside Destiny’s Child member Kelly Rowland and Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger.
Although Netflix has not yet announced a release date, the show was confirmed as part of the platform’s newly revealed lineup of TV and film content for 2025.
Building the Band follows singers as they attempt to form their own group. In a format similar to Love Is Blind, contestants are kept in separate booths, unable to see each other.
According to the show’s synopsis, “All they have to go on is musical compatibility, connection, chemistry, and merit… with incredible performances, compelling drama, and one big goal – to find the next great music band – the stage is set for an unforgettable experience.”
Backstreet Boys star AJ McLean will host the series, while Nicole Scherzinger will serve as a mentor and judge. Payne and Rowland will appear as guest judges.
Scherzinger was previously a judge on The X Factor in 2010 when Payne auditioned as a solo contestant before being placed in a group with Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan, and Louis Tomlinson to form One Direction.
Payne’s former partner Cheryl, the mother of his son Bear, along with his fellow One Direction bandmates, were among those who attended his funeral in Buckinghamshire in November.
An investigation by Argentina’s Public Prosecutor’s Office into his death remains ongoing.
Five individuals have been charged in connection with his passing, including the singer’s friend Roger Nores, the hotel’s manager, and a receptionist, all accused of manslaughter.
Argentina’s National Criminal and Correctional Prosecutor’s Office previously stated that a hotel employee and a waiter have been charged with supplying cocaine.
A hearing to determine the circumstances of Payne’s death, held at Buckinghamshire Coroner’s Court in December, has been postponed until a pre-inquest review scheduled for 6 November.